Splenectomy, Steroids, and Dextran 70 in Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura

Splenectomy was performed on six patients with thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura as soon as the diagnosis was established. This procedure was followed by therapy with corticosteroids and dextran 70. Five of six patients are alive four months to four years after diagnosis. Since other means of therapy have resulted, at best, in 31 long-term survivors in more than 300 patients, we believe splenectomy, concomitant therapy with dextran 70 for two weeks, and corticosteroids in gradually decreasing doses for several months show great promise.